Vibhuti or Bhasma is the sacred ash worn by Hindu devotees.
There is a doubt among many devotees whether Bhasma should be used wet – after
making it a paste (damp) – or dry. Bhasma that we receive from temples should
worn dry. That which is kept at home should be made into a paste and worn.

Vibhuti that we bring from temples should not be mixed with
the stock at home.

After applying Vibhuti paste, one should not wash the hands but cleanse it by
applying the remnant on other parts including legs and hands.

The article originally written and contributed by Sarma Sastrigal. It is found in the book titled ‘The Great Hindu Tradition’ written by Sarma Sastrigal.